Brachycephalic Syndrome

These dogs have unique anatomical features that can pose significant challenges to their respiratory health. In this article, we will explore the causes of their breathing difficulties and practical tips for supporting their well-being.

What is Brachycephalic Syndrome?

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is the name that causes flat-faced dogs' breathing difficulties. The shortened skull bones of brachycephalic dogs cause the soft tissue structures of their noses and throats.

Flat-faced dogs have shorter muzzle bones in their skulls than dogs that have retained their traditionally longer snouts, but often the soft tissue around the mouth, nose and throat has not decreased in size. Because of this, the airway becomes narrowed or partially blocked as the tissue squeezes into a smaller space which means it can overheat.

Brachycephalic syndrome is the collection of physical alterations that include:

• Stenotic nostrils

Breathing through these narrow airways is living with a permanently stuffy nose. 

• A long soft palate

The soft, fleshy part of the roof of the mouth becomes too long, partially blocking the windpipe at the back of the throat. Dogs with elongated soft palates often suffer from exercise intolerance, becoming winded and overheating quickly during activity.

• Laryngeal Collapse

Your dog’s voice box is made up of cartilage. The oversized structures of the head in flat-faced dogs cause compression of this cartilage, slowly collapsing the larynx and restricting airflow. 

• A narrow trachea
  
  The reduced diameter of the windpipe can lead to major respiratory distress in times of physical exertion.

These physical issues can make it very difficult for a pet to take a deep breath. They are also responsible for the characteristic grunts, snorts, and gags associated with these types of dogs and may gain weight.

Attention if your Flat-faced Dog Breed is on the list!

• Affenpinscher
• American Bulldog
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldog
• Bullmastiff
• Cane Corso
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Chow Chow
• Dogo Argentino
• Dogue de Bordeaux
• French bulldog
• Japanese Chin
• Lhasa Apso
• Mastiff
• Neapolitan Mastiff
• Newfoundland
• Pekingese
• Pug
• Shar Pei
• Shih Tzu
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

Are there any Treatments for Flat-Faced Dogs with BOAS?

Unfortunately, few non-surgical treatments exist for flat-faced dogs with brachycephalic airway syndrome. Steroids and oxygen therapy may provide short-term relief, but will not cure the underlying conditions. 

Flat-faced dog breeds must maintain a healthy weight which means a balanced diet and exercise is essential too.

How to Prevent Brachycephalic Syndrome In Flat-Faced Breeds?

Prevention is always the best we can do. Our flat-faced pup needs an extra paw when its health is at risk. 

Keeping them in shape is a good start. Exercise and walkies every day help a lot. 

Choosing the right accessories for your doggie can significantly impact their health and well-being. No pull, no choke harnesses are ideal to help pups with brachycephalic syndrome.

This way, you can be sure your dog is comfortable in the harness, free from any tight-fitting fabric around their neck.

Additionally, the material is breathable to reduce excessive heat in our pooch's body, especially when hot weather is present.

We understand that having a happy dog is the best feeling in the world. 

That's why we developed a unique no choke, no pull and no mat One-Click harness to enhance the quality of your dog's life.